Blue Cross Blue Shield launches mobile "Doc Finder" app Posted: July 26th, 2011

As vacationers fan out across the country for summer fun, Blue Cross Blue Shield has launched a mobile app designed to connect its members to in-network providers. The Blue National Doctor & Hospital Finder is geared toward members in 39 affiliate companies within the Blue Cross Blue Shield network; however, anyone with an iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch can download the app for free.

Among the app's features:

• Ability to search by provider name and type
• Filter for Spanish and English languages
• "Click-to-Call" functionality
• GPS navigation

In addition, whenever possible, the app will direct members to nearby urgent care centers that can be more affordable and more convenient than emergency rooms.

"With the new app, The Blues^® are leveraging technology to put information literally in the hands of consumers so they can find healthcare providers when and where they need them most," said Scott P. Serota, president and CEO of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), in a statement.

The BCBSA reports that a version of the Blue National Doctor & Hospital Finder will be available for Android devices later this year.